The Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) is a branch of the worldwide Franciscan Family. We are single and married. We work, worship and play in the community where we live.

The OFS is a secular movement, established by St. Francis of Assisi more than 800 years ago. Our purpose is to bring the gospel to life where we live and where we work. We look for practical ways to embrace the gospel in our lives and try to help others to do likewise.

In today’s world we are plagued by time schedules, projects and activities that leave us tense and stressed. The OFS becomes our place of refuge and renewal where our brothers and sisters in Francis support and inspire us. You, too, can become a life-time member of our family – if God is calling you.

What do Secular Franciscans Do?Secular Franciscans follow the OFS rule that requires us to spend time in community with our Franciscan brothers and sisters.

We gather at least monthly. We support each other through the ups and downs of daily life. We pray together. We take opportunities to learn about our Church, our community and our world.Our rule mandates us to be involved in apostolic ministries and with youth. When we are called to action, we embrace the call joyfully. Some of us are religious education teachers, some have a special ministry to animals, some have made a commitment to Perpetual Adoration. Some work with the poor and homeless.

As a fraternity, we take action on issues that affect the lives of others. We do letter-writing campaigns in response to social justice issues; we support the efforts of our brothers and sisters who are serving the poor and lepers halfway around the world.

Meeting Dates in 2019

January 20th

February 17th

March 17th

April 28th

May 19th

June 16th

July 21st

August 18th

September 15

October 20th

November 17th

All meetings take place in the Halpine Room at 2:00 P.M.

In 1927 a Secular Franciscan Fraternity was formed at Holy Family. From what we can tell, in the late 1970s to early 1980s it went dormant as younger Catholics were not recruited to continue the wonderful Franciscan tradition.

I am very happy to announce that we have been given permission to re-activate the Holy Family Fraternity effective immediately. We look forward to growing & invite you to attend our monthly meetings to see if being a Franciscan is what you are called to do. All Catholics in good standing 18 years of age & older are welcome.

We meet on one Sunday per month at 2:00 p.m. in the Halpine Room. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.